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-Greg’s Take- Attaloss: Attaloss

To understand modern rock I think it only fair to understand that for a band to really set themselves apart, they need to take chances. There are half a million Billie Joe Armstrongs out there and the modern rock evolution has all pretty much plateaued. So many bands come in on a strong approach then are forgotten all too soon.

Lately, we’ve seen a surge of originality from Los Angeles. Their rock scene firmly stands on its own two feet. Most recently contributing to the progression of originality is a quintet from LA. Danny Aguiluz, Chris Johansen, Matt Geronimo, Lorenzo Perea and Dakota Clark combined talents under the moniker Attaloss; a name founded on the belief of a better tomorrow.

Attaloss’ self-titled album takes a chance on something incredibly risky. There are five songs on the album, but ten tracks. The record first delivers the song in fine rock fashion before promptly following it up with an acoustic version of the same track. At first, it almost killed the pace of the album, but upon a second go around, it all but detracted. It’s not hard to find yourself picking through each song, weighing the pros and cons of each, before deciding which version you like best. Then you find yourself in a struggle. A song like “Forward” delivers a healthy dose of addiction in both acoustic and plugged-in version. Though an uncommon approach to an album, it certainly has flair and appeal.

Conceptualization aside, Attaloss portrays a sound that has been done a hundred times before; however, holds true to more than a glimpse of original sound. Front-man Danny Aguiluz’s voice stands out front of the music with a strained, aching passion. The emotional rock vocals are a cleaner Shaun Morgan. Chris Johansen and Matt Geronimo bring more than just backing vocals and guitars to the mix. Proving that they are more than just a one-trick pony, each adds a memorable spin on each take. Lorenzo Perea and Dakota Clark hand deliver exactly what the album needed. The heartbeat and foundation for any rock is bass and drums. Grinding home the powerful force throughout the album Perea and Clark keep your body moving.

Attaloss took a unique approach to their self-titled release and it pays off big time. The album is more than a proclamation of determination, promoting the urgency to keep your head up and move forward, it is almost a ten track discussion about the power of delivery and self-inspiration. Fear not, rock is still moving forward and Attaloss proves just that.